COL. NAHUM BALDWIN was for some years a prominent citizen of Amherst. He served as town-clerk, selectman, and representative, and was for a long time one of the officers of the church. In the autumn of 1776 he commanded a regiment sent to reinforce the army in northern New York, and took part in the battle at White Plains. A tradition has been handed down that he and several others were once taken prisoners by the Indians. Two of the savages, with hatchets in their hands, would lead one of the prisoners to the top of a precipice, near by, down which they would throw his remains, after dispatching him. Not relishing the idea of being disposed of in this manner, Baldwin broke away from his captors, leaving his only remaining garment in their possession, and ran for his life. The Indians threw their hatchets after him, which passed near his head, but fortunately missed him. After running about twelve miles he reached a place of safety. [History of Amherst by DF Secomb, 1883, p. 862]
COL. NAHUM BALDWIN was for some years a prominent citizen of Amherst. He served as town-clerk, selectman, and representative, and was for a long time one of the officers of the church. In the autumn of 1776 he commanded a regiment sent to reinforce the army in northern New York, and took part in the battle at White Plains. A tradition has been handed down that he and several others were once taken prisoners by the Indians. Two of the savages, with hatchets in their hands, would lead one of the prisoners to the top of a precipice, near by, down which they would throw his remains, after dispatching him. Not relishing the idea of being disposed of in this manner, Baldwin broke away from his captors, leaving his only remaining garment in their possession, and ran for his life. The Indians threw their hatchets after him, which passed near his head, but fortunately missed him. After running about twelve miles he reached a place of safety. [History of Amherst by DF Secomb, 1883, p. 862]
Inscription
Memento Mori Erected In Memory of Colo. Nahum Baldwin who departed this life May 7th AD 1788, in ye 54th Year of his age being ye second Deacon of his parish. Blessed is the memory of the just, Though they be sleeping in the Dust. And happy shall be when they rise, Through Grace to shine among the wise, In Realms of light and peace above, To Sing and praye Redeeming love.
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